By Kevin Patrick V. Mariano
MANILA, (PNA) — The Ateneo Blue Eagles soared to its seventh win to gain a Final Four berth after defeating the valiant University of the East Red Warriors, 77-72, in the UAAP Season 76 Men’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday at the Mall Of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
The Blue Eagles relied on the stellar performance of Kiefer Ravena who finished with a season-high 22 points. Chris Newsome added 18 points and eight rebounds for the Katipunan-based squad who improved their record to 7-5 along with UST.
The Blue Eagles outscored the Warriors in turnover points showdown (18-10). They also outpaced the Warriors, 22-7, in fast break points.
The Warriors suffered a hard blow late in the 4th, after losing Roi Sumang who injured his right leg amidst their 4th quarter comeback. Sumang led the Warriors with 27 points and four rebounds in the losing effort.
ADMU assistant coach Sandy Arespacochaga stated after the game: “Were happy we did this for Coach Bo, when one of us is down we have to step up.”
The Red Warriors are now eliminated from the Final Four contention with a 5-7 record.